"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens is a classic story of redemption and change that has become a central part of many family's holiday celebrations. Hana Sharif, Artistic Director for the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, is contributing to this legacy with her second annual production of the classic story. Hana spoke with Steve about the spiritual power of theater and what it means to share this story with modern audiences almost 180 years after Dickens first published it. She also speaks about her interfaith background and how story can cross over religious and cultural lines.

Hana Sharif has enjoyed a decorated career in the theater, including roles as an artistic leader, director, playwright and producer with a specialty in leadership. During her decade-long tenure at Hartford Stage, Hana served as the Associate Artistic Director, Director of New Play Development, and Artistic Producer. From 1997–2003, Hana served as the co-founder and Artistic Director of Nasir Productions, a theatre dedicated to underrepresented voices to challenge traditional structures. Additionally, Hana has directed many acclaimed productions, including Porgy & Bess, The Who & The What, Sense and Sensibility, The Christians, Pride and Prejudice (DCArts: Best Director/Best New Play), and The Whipping Man. Her plays include All the Women I Used to Be, The Rise and Fall of Day and The Sprott Cycle Trilogy. Hana holds a BA from Spelman College and an MFA from the University of Houston. She is the recipient of the 2009–10 Aetna New Voices Fellowship and a litany of other awards She serves on the board of directors for the Theatre Communications Group, the Black Theatre Commons, and the Sprott Foundation.